Midlevel Intellectual Property - Life Sciences Associate Attorney

Job Overview: A prestigious law firm is seeking a talented Midlevel Associate to join its Intellectual Property (IP) team, specializing in life sciences and biotechnology. This position is ideal for a patent prosecution attorney with 1-5 years of experience in the biotechnology field. The successful candidate will have an advanced degree (preferably a Ph.D.) in molecular biology, immunology, biochemistry, cell biology, or a related life sciences discipline. The focus of this role will be on patent prosecution and counseling for emerging companies in fields such as antibody therapeutics, DNA/RNA therapeutics, gene editing, and chemical biology.

Location:

• Boston, Massachusetts

Duties:

• Conduct patent prosecution work for emerging life sciences companies, including preparing, filing, and prosecuting patent applications.
• Provide patent counseling and strategic guidance to clients in the biotechnology and life sciences sectors.
• Handle a wide variety of matters related to biotechnology, including gene editing, antibodies, RNA/DNA therapeutics, and chemical biology.
• Advise clients on IP-related matters, including patentability, freedom-to-operate, and IP strategy.
• Collaborate with senior partners and clients on complex patent issues and emerging technologies.
• Work closely with R&D teams, business development, and product development teams to protect clients' innovations.
• Prepare and present patent-related materials, including patent applications, responses to office actions, and appeals to the USPTO.
• Support patent litigation and IP-related due diligence as needed.

Requirements:

• 1-5 years of experience in patent prosecution, specifically within the biotechnology sector.
• Advanced degree (preferably Ph.D.) in a life sciences field such as molecular biology, immunology, biochemistry, or cell biology.
• USPTO Registration Number (Patent Bar membership) is required. If not currently registered, candidates must pass the Patent Bar within 12 months of hire.
• Strong technical knowledge and experience in biotechnology and related areas such as gene editing, RNA/DNA therapeutics, and antibody development.
• Experience working with emerging life sciences companies is a plus.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to draft clear, concise patent applications and legal documents.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to think strategically about IP issues.

Education:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Advanced degree (preferably Ph.D.) in a life sciences-related field.

Certifications:

• USPTO Registration Number (Patent Bar required).
• If not yet registered, the candidate must pass the Patent Bar within the first 12 months of employment.

Skills:

• Expertise in patent prosecution and IP counseling in the life sciences or biotechnology industry.
• Strong knowledge of patent law, particularly related to biotechnology and life sciences.
• Ability to effectively communicate complex scientific concepts to clients and team members.
• Strong attention to detail, particularly in the drafting and prosecution of patent applications.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaborative team player with the ability to work effectively with clients and colleagues.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plans with employer contributions.
• Generous paid time off (PTO) and holidays.
• Professional development and continuing education opportunities.
• Flexible work arrangements may be available.

This firms Boston office provides a full range of litigation, finance, corporate, restructuring, intellectual property, and employment and benefit services. They assist clients in addressing and preparing for challenges in immense and rapidly changing environments. They represent each client with equal dedication to understanding and advancing their best interests. This firm employs patent agents, lawyers, regulatory scientists, employee benefits advisers, and other professionals to create a superior network of legal professionals across the globe.